As shown with the signings of Dejan Lovren, Toby Alderweireld and Van Dijk in recent years, Saints are likely to look overseas for an up and coming defender but that doesn't mean English-based players should be discounted either.

Southampton have consistently said they do not intend to sell Van Dijk, who joined from Celtic for £13 million in September 2015 and signed a new six-year contract in 2016.

The Reds were boosted earlier in the week after it emerged the centre-back was keen on making a big summer move to Anfield, instead of joining either Chelsea or Manchester City.

In the last few minutes, it has also been reported that the Premier League will not be taking any action against Liverpool.

Southampton would rather there was a bidding war between van Dijk's potential suitors, and are looking for a price of between £65m and £75m.

"It's so refreshing because he's chosen the history of LiverpoolFootball Club, the impressiveness of the manager, and I can't wait to see him play in a Red shirt". Indeed, the Saints have lodged a complaint with the Premier League about the issue.

Liverpool have signed a number of Southampton's first-team stars in recent seasons, with Nathaniel Clyne, Adam Lallana, Dejan Lovren and Rickie Lambert all leaving St Mary's Stadium for Merseyside in the past three years. Or are Jurgen Klopp's side better off without Van Dijk?